IN what any right-thinking person would call a presumptuous and bold move, Venezuela has publically demonstrated its intention to once again attempt to bully Guyana.
First, the Spanish-speaking nation wrongfully laid claim to a major portion of Guyana’s territory which is filled with minerals and other resources. Now, Venezuela is trying to go after Guyana’s oil wealth.
In a recent communique, the Venezuelan government has incorrectly claimed that Guyana does not have sovereign or legal rights over the offshore area where the eight oil blocks that are being auctioned are located. Further, threats were issued to the bidders.
There are so many things wrong with this picture.
Venezuela’s latest actions are an insult to diplomacy and a total disregard for the judicial process. Currently, the long-standing border controversy between the two countries is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague.
Guyana is seeking a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the location of the land boundary between then British Guiana and Venezuela, remains valid and that the Essequibo region belongs to this nation and not Venezuela.
This latest attempt at bullyism has been rejected not only by Guyana, but also by global leaders including OAS Secretary-General Luis Almagro, whose actions have demonstrated clear support for this oil-producing nation.
Rightfully, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, is using his time at the 78th Session of UNGA in New York to draw attempt to Venezuela’s unwarranted attack and attempt to increase tensions.
The Guyanese Head of State told the UN General Assembly that Venezuela’s stance should be considered a threat to regional and international peace and security, as well as to this country’s investment partners.
He has called on Venezuela to pursue peaceful means to settle all the disputes it has with Guyana.
A warning was sounded that Guyana does not intend to back down and let the Bolivarian Republic trample on its rights without a fight. Though small in population and size compared to Venezuela, the Guyanese leader has indicated that no effort will be spared to defend this country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Guyana has been under threat 57 years after it gained independence, and the silence from many of its global partners is deafening and can be described as pathetic.
Without a doubt, Venezuela will ignore all calls and pleadings as they have done since the start of the border controversy. They have attempted provocation on several occasions but Guyana has remained peaceful and resolute. No good will come out of this level of insult and mischief-making.
Venezuela is in economic crisis and despite its bullying tactics, many nations including Guyana have rushed to their aid.
However, their actions have solidified the need for all global leaders to stand in Guyana’s corner and show in no uncertain terms that bullyism has no place in the diplomatic world. There are other ways and means to solve issues and disputes respectfully, and within legal and diplomatic parameters.